After taking cannabis, side effects are usually moderate. Patients often report dry mouth, red eyes, sleepiness, racing heart, low blood pressure or dizziness.
The intensity of the side effects varies depending on the dosage and can be very different for different patients. Due to the psychoactive compounds, especially tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), changes in perception and level of consciousness may occur, which can cause undesirable effects, especially in sensitive people or in high doses. Experience has shown that side effects diminish over the course of therapy.
Cannabis in high doses, especially non-medical use, can cause a state of intoxication. This is characterized by a shift in consciousness with associative, erratic thinking and an impairment of short-term memory. An overdose can lead to circulatory problems and anxiety.
Cannabis can be addictive, especially if used improperly. Although the risk is low when used professionally and medically, it is important to control dosage and use under medical supervision.
Some people develop addiction due to regular and excessive consumption. However, susceptibility to this varies from person to person, depending on genetic, psychological and environmental factors. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Cannabis can interact with certain medications, as it can affect the metabolism of drugs that are broken down by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver. This means it could increase or decrease the concentration of these medications in the blood, which could lead to unwanted effects.
To ensure you do not risk potentially dangerous interactions, always consult with healthcare professionals.
Some studies suggest that cannabis could potentially have positive effects on mental illness, particularly in relieving symptoms such as anxiety or sleep problems. Many of our members use cannabis to stabilize their mental health.
However, there is also research that points to possible negative effects of cannabis on mental health. Particularly in people with a predisposition to mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, the use of cannabis can increase the risk of psychotic symptoms.
It is important to note that the effects of cannabis depend on various factors, including the individual's condition, the type of mental illness, the dosage and the type of cannabis product used. Before considering cannabis to treat a mental health condition, always speak to your healthcare professional.
People with cardiovascular disease should exercise extreme caution when using cannabis. Possible drug interactions, increased blood pressure, and increased heart rate are potential risks.
Individual reactions to cannabis vary, and smoking may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Before using cannabis medicinally, even for self-medication, it is essential to discuss this with a doctor in order to minimize possible risks and ensure a safe approach.
A doctor's prescription for medical cannabis offers several advantages over the black market. Cannabis available through pharmacies is manufactured under strict quality controls to ensure purity and safety.
The legally acquired substance protects against criminal consequences and enables professional medical supervision. This ensures individually tailored and safe therapy, while the black market harbors potentially dangerous products and legal risks.
It is possible to smoke cannabis, but it should be noted that this is not a medically recommended form of use. Vaporization is recommended as a gentler alternative to minimize health risks.
Smoking cannabis poses similar health risks to smoking tobacco, including potential respiratory problems and long-term effects on the lungs.
If you are still considering smoking cannabis, avoid adding tobacco. Nicotine, a component of many tobacco products, is a neurotoxin. Consuming nicotine can be counterproductive to the desired medical effects.
Cannabis use can affect the brain, especially if it starts at a young age. There is evidence that consumption in adolescents may be associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and changes in brain structure, particularly in areas such as learning, memory and attention.
However, it is important to emphasize that cannabis may also have neuroprotective properties. Some research suggests that cannabinoids in cannabis have the potential to protect cells in the brain from damage. This could help older people protect the brain as they age, particularly against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
However, research on this topic is ongoing and careful weighing of risks and benefits, ideally in consultation with medical professionals, is advisable.
The use of cannabis during pregnancy is generally not recommended. There is research that suggests that using cannabis during pregnancy may be associated with various risks.
Disclaimer :
We are medical cannabis patients sharing our own experiences. We are not medical professionals.
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«Find out everything about pain relief through cannabis and the activities of our Association .»Felix Iten, founding member MEDCAN